Clinical Consideration for Working with the Queer, Gay, Non-binary, and LGBTQIA2+ Population

This session delves into clinical information for working with the Trans Community by addressing the needs of LGBTQAIA2+/transgender individuals who seek treatment for mental health and/or substance use disorders. The presentation covers Clinical considerations, including best practices for trans youth and adults, body dysphoria as per the DSM-5, hormone readiness implications, body image management, and emotions and feelings those in the LGBTQIA2+ “Rainbow Community” may experience will be presented from both a clinical, as well as personal perspective through Kristina Padilla’s lived experience as a gay/trans/fluid person. CBTF will be discussed, MET will be gone over, and Trauma inform treatment will be presented to show clinicians how to work with queer populations. As a refresher for some and a foundation for those new to working with this population, an “Introduction to the LGBTQ+ Community: LGBTQ+ 101,” will give basic information about definitions, best practices, and working with the Trans and non-binary population. Effective tips and questions to ask as a potential clinician will be reviewed so that clinicians may self-assess their practice’s LGBTQIA2+ affirming levels and ways in which to improve this quality if necessary. Insights about how to run a successful support group for those who are coming out or questioning will also be outlined and discussed. To take participants beyond their practices to becoming potential advocates for their clients and within society as a whole, “Welcome to the Rainbow Community: What you didn’t know, and How to Become an Ally” will be presented. This important section of the presentation challenges practitioners to be leaders in their communities and to inspire clients and their families to end stigma that has so deeply impacted “Rainbow People.” Many practitioners have a basic familiarity concerning LGBTQ clients. However, most are unfamiliar with the distinctions within the trans and non-binary populations. There is a strong need for practitioners to learn the unique attributes of the trans umbrella and how the histories and challenges each segment faces when entering treatment for addiction impacts the way in which each individual may succeed or fail. Clinicians can vastly improve service delivery by understanding that what they may not know what they do not know regarding this special population. With the incredible stress that isolation has created due to the pandemic, young trans people are at a historic risk for addiction and suicidality. It is urgent that practitioners increase their knowledge about this special population.